Volkswagen Marks 40 Years of the Jetta GLI with Distinct 2024 Limited-Edition Model
August 09 2023,
Anniversary edition marries German-engineered performance with commemorative design cues
Volkswagen Canada has kickstarted the production of its commemorative 40th Anniversary Edition of the Jetta GLI. This special edition pays homage to the model's debut in 1984 and its subsequent legacy as the “GTI with a trunk”. Over the past four decades, the Jetta GLI has delivered unmatched German-engineered performance to tens of thousands of Canadian drivers.
The exterior of this celebratory model is distinctly crafted. It will be available in three colour choices: Pure Grey, Oryx White, and Kings Red. Complementing these colours is a black roof and blackout detailing that spans from the front grille to the rear. This detailing extends to features like the unique 18-inch “Belvedere” wheels in a black ten-spoke design, black grille, mirror caps, door handles, and a spoiler. The overall effect gives the vehicle a striking, streamlined appearance.
The cabin of the 40th Anniversary Edition is replete with unique design touches. The embossed “Molecular” cloth seats, specially crafted for this trim, differ in each vehicle, making each Jetta GLI as unique as a fingerprint. Other interior highlights include engraved cupholders, one showcasing the GLI logo and the other featuring “1984”. Moreover, seat tags, front door sills, and a steering wheel clip resonate the “GLI 40” anniversary theme.
Under the hood, the 40th Anniversary Edition is no less impressive. It houses a turbocharged EA888 2.0-litre engine that churns out 228 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. Enthusiasts can choose between the six-speed manual or the seven-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic transmissions. In line with the GLI's sporty lineage, this edition incorporates larger brakes, a Sport HMI performance monitor, VAQ electronically-controlled torque-sensing limited-slip differential, and a specially tuned sport exhaust.
Potential buyers can expect a starting MSRP of $31,395 for the manual transmission variant, and $32,795 for the DSG version. This celebratory edition will be sold alongside the standard GLI Autobahn model, which carries a starting price of $33,395 for manual and $34,795 with the DSG transmission.
Anticipation is set to build as these Jetta GLI models are slated to roll into dealerships by the end of this summer.
